Euthanasia

What is euthanasia?

The intentional ending of life to relieve suffering.

What does euthanasia mean?

Good death.

What is voluntary euthanasia?

Euthanasia carried out at the request of a competent patient.

What is non-voluntary euthanasia?

Euthanasia where the patient cannot provide consent.

What is involuntary euthanasia?

Euthanasia carried out against the patient's wishes.

What is active euthanasia?

Taking direct action to end life.

What is passive euthanasia?

Allowing death through withdrawal or withholding of treatment.

What is assisted suicide?

Providing the means for someone to end their own life.

What is the sanctity of life principle?

The belief that human life is inherently valuable and sacred.

What is the quality of life argument?

The view that wellbeing and dignity may be more important than mere biological existence.

How does Natural Law evaluate euthanasia?

It is generally morally wrong because it violates the Primary Precept of preserving life.

How does Situation Ethics evaluate euthanasia?

It may be justified if it is the most loving action.

How does Utilitarianism evaluate euthanasia?

It depends on whether it maximises overall happiness and minimises suffering.

How does Kantian Ethics evaluate euthanasia?

It is generally wrong because rational beings should not be treated merely as means.

What is the doctrine of double effect?

A principle permitting actions with unintended harmful consequences.

How is the doctrine of double effect applied to euthanasia?

Pain relief may be given even if death is foreseen but not intended.

What is palliative care?

Care aimed at relieving suffering rather than curing illness.

What is autonomy in the euthanasia debate?

The right of individuals to make decisions about their own lives.

What is the slippery slope argument?

Legalisation could lead to increasingly permissive and unethical practices.

What is Peter Singer's view on euthanasia?

Quality of life can outweigh the sanctity of life.

What is the Roman Catholic view of euthanasia?

It is generally morally wrong because life is a gift from God.

What is a strength of legalising euthanasia?

It respects autonomy and can reduce suffering.

What is a weakness of legalising euthanasia?

It may place pressure on vulnerable people.